Q My car hit a very nasty pothole last week on the main road near my home. I got back safely but when I inspected the vehicle I could see my front passenger tyre was flat as a pancake following the incident.

We contacted Swansea City Council to make a compensation claim of £50 for a new tyre.

We were told to provide photographic evidence. So my parents travelled the way I came - and discovered that the pothole had been filled in. Am I entitled to compensation from the council?

Thanks for your help. - Rob Charles, Swansea

A your case for compensation is strong. Local authorities are responsible for maintaining the highway. But entitlement is not the same as proving your case. You need to gather the following evidence, otherwise the council will simply refuse to pay out:

Proof of the damaged tyre (a photo would be ideal).

Proof of the pothole (the council should provide you with a letter confirming when the hole was repaired).

Proof of purchase of the new tyre.

I would also advise you to have your car examined - particularly the steering and suspension. It may be there is other damage. Make sure to do this before you make your claim.

If there is further damage you should incorporate this into the claim.

Write to Judge Tread, Sunday Mirror, 1 Canada Square, London E14 5AP, or you can email ollie@sundaymirror.co.uk Or he's on www.driverschampion.net